The world economy had started moving unpredictably. Many stagnant flows started moving and it was all pointing toward Sakura Islands and the Empire.
The world had already formed a steady ecosystem that dictated the value of currency and goods and although the Empire was better off, they were only in the middle while Sakura Island was below average.
But all that changed. Money was flowing there and their economy was growing. While the value of their currency did not change, it still affected the world balance.
Sakura Island started buying materials in bulk and there was no stopping it. It was like the whole thing was premeditated and by the time the rest of the world was reacting, the imported materials were already being shipped.
And the things they bought were common. Meaning that even if the big countries managed to stop them, they could still buy from other countries. It was just that it would cost more to transport.